1 Thessalonians 5:20 Meaning and Explanation

Closely joined to the warning about the Spirit comes another: 'Despise not prophesyings.' They are not to look down on or dismiss the speaking of God's word among them. To despise prophesying would be one clear way of quenching the Spirit, since the Spirit often works through the faithful declaration of His truth.

There is a balance here that Paul will complete in the next verse. He does not say to accept every claim uncritically, but he forbids a sneering dismissal of God's word spoken in the assembly. Some are tempted to disregard such ministry, treating it as unimportant or beneath them, and Paul names this as a danger. The speaking forth of God's message is a gift to be received with respect, not contempt. Where the previous verse warned against putting out the Spirit's fire, this one guards a particular way that fire burns. Paul wants the church to honor the word God sends them, holding it in the high regard it deserves rather than treating it lightly.